"Most sailors now use the Harken Laser Vang and have replaced the older-style Hexaratchets (019) with 57 mm switchable Carbo Ratchets (2135), or load-sensing Carbo Ratchamatics® (2625) for their mainsheet blocks. Some skippers are going even smaller and using 40 mm Carbo Ratchets (2608) for the mainsheet. These low-friction, compact blocks are 30% lighter and have a 60% higher working load than Classic blocks." —Mitja Margon - Managing Director Harken Slovenia; Olympic classes specialist.
Keep in mind, we've adapted this block from it's intended use controlling jib and spinnaker sheets on large boats.do I want switchable?
NP, Once you get one in your hand all this techno-gobbledygook instantly becomes so simple.Ah, I see. Thanks, and thanks for the link.
Yes, APS has 10% off Harken this month (March). That will pay off the shipping.
McMaster-Carr.com has themDid you ever find a source for the short #10-32 screws? I've been thinking about making this modification but don't want to start down this path if I can't find all the necessary parts.
You could probably buy just four at a hardware store, but the total price wouldn't be any different.Excellent! Thanks, Wayne.
I definitely like your setupso here's my frustration: I can't for the life of me find an easy (or quick) way to get the spring compressed, and then get the ratchet block installed with the pin and spring pin to lock it all in place. I think one of the setup/rigging manual shows using 2 pieces of spring to tie the spring down (compressed), and then connect the ratchet block to the eyestrap, and then remove the strings.
of the eyestrap with the 150 cam cleat mounted on the cockpit lip.
I have only removed the block once in over 10 years so I could more easily repair the daggerboard trunks upper seam.So, does your method allow you to remove the block frequently or just to get it installed the 1st time?
Might work. The problem I found with string that also might exist with zip ties is a tendancy to slip and bunch to one side.Could you compress the spring with a couple zip ties and cut them off after the install..............
No, I have never found 1/4" screws. If you buy 100 of them, I'll buy a few from you. I haven't installed it yet since my Sunfish is being stored laying upside down on the ground.
to make matters worse, it seemed to me that the spring was WAY too stiff, and the ratchet block wouldn't be able to swivel when I would tack to the other side. (using the swiveling base cam cleat might eliminate this as a problem, though).
anyway, I trailer my boat a lot, and I don't want to drive down the road with the ratchet block flapping in the breeze (probably not a big deal - I just don't want to do it), and I don't really want to mess with the string on the spring trick every time I rig up and down for a day of sailing.
cheers,
tag